Taxonomy

Division:

Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants

Family:

Ericaceae

Genus:

Kalmia

Species:

Kalmia hirsuta

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:

Perennial

Growth Habit:

Shrub

Height:

4-6 ft

Light Requirements:

Full Sun

Drought Tolerance:

Low

Bloom Months:

may, jun, jul

Bloom Colors:

Red, Pink

Evergreen Shrub:

Yes

Native Range

United States: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina

Keystone Species Ranking

Caterpillar Keystone:

★★★☆☆ Based on number of butterfly and moth species using this genus as host plant (Source: National Wildlife Federation)

Bee Keystone:

★★★★★ Based on number of native bee species using this genus for pollen and nectar (Source: National Wildlife Federation)

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:

sandy, acidic, nutrient-poor soil

pH:

4.5 - 6.0 (acidic)

Drainage:

excellent drainage required

Moisture:

dry to moderate

Notes:

native to pine flatwoods and sandy scrub areas

Germination Information